Mortgage vs Rent Calculator: 2026 Analysis

Deciding between buying a home and renting depends on monthly cost, long-term wealth, and lifestyle. Calculators help compare scenarios.

Monthly Cost Comparison

Rent: one monthly payment, often including some utilities. Mortgage: principal, interest, property tax, insurance, and possibly PMI. Maintenance and HOA add to ownership cost. Use our [Mortgage Calculator](/calculators/finance/mortgage-calculator) to get a monthly payment estimate.

Long-Term Equity

Buying builds equity as you pay down the loan and if the property appreciates. Renting leaves no equity but frees capital for other investments. The "breakeven" period varies by market and rates.

Flexibility

Renting offers mobility; buying ties you to a location and selling costs. Job or family changes can make flexibility valuable.

Using Calculators

1. Enter your target home price, down payment, rate, and term in the [Mortgage Calculator](/calculators/finance/mortgage-calculator).

2. Add taxes, insurance, and maintenance for total ownership cost.

3. Compare to your current or expected rent.

4. Use the [Budget Calculator](/calculators/finance/budget-calculator) to see how each option fits your budget.

For more, see [How to Calculate Mortgage Payment](/blog/how-to-calculate-mortgage-payment) and [Budget Planning 101](/blog/budget-planning-101).